Uber's prices go up when there is significant demand - but the company has been slammed by people in Birmingham for high prices

An Uber spokeswoman said: "Our app uses dynamic pricing which means that fares automatically increase when the demand for cars in a specific area is greater than the cars available.

"Bad weather meant that were many people looking to book a car but fewer cars on the road which caused prices to automatically rise. The higher fare encourages more drivers to come into the area so there are more cars for people who want one.

"Users always see a fare estimate in advance so they have the choice to book a car, share the trip with others or wait until fares decrease."